Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q1 fiscal 2025 were $1,350 million, down 0.9% year-over-year, resulting in a negative 3.7% comparable sales (comp) [13][26] - Operating income was $69.3 million, with diluted EPS at $0.68 and adjusted EPS at $0.76 [30] - Gross margin improved to 34%, a 60 basis point increase from the previous year, driven by merchandise margin expansion and favorable shrink [28][29] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Footwear and apparel were the strongest categories, remaining roughly flat year-over-year, while sports and recreation also showed improvement [14][26] - Athletic footwear posted a positive 4.5% comp, led by brands like Nike and Brooks, while the Jordan brand exceeded internal expectations [27][19] - Outdoor category faced challenges, particularly in ammunition sales, but fishing and firearms showed solid increases [14][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company observed increased foot traffic from customers with household incomes over $100,000, indicating a shift towards value-seeking behavior among higher-income consumers [12][37] - E-commerce sales increased by 10% for the quarter, with penetration growing to over 10% [17][26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on new store expansion, planning to open 20 to 25 new stores in fiscal 2025, with five locations opened in Q1 [15][16] - E-commerce growth is a key pillar, with efforts to enhance the online shopping experience and expand product offerings [17][18] - The company is leveraging technology, including RFID and handheld devices, to improve inventory accuracy and customer experience [21][22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about navigating tariff impacts and consumer behavior, emphasizing the importance of value in a challenging economic environment [7][25] - The company is adjusting its guidance to account for various tariff scenarios, with sales expectations ranging from $5.97 billion to $6.26 billion [35][36] - Management noted the fragility of the U.S. consumer environment but remains confident in long-term growth strategies [24][25] Other Important Information - The company returned over $100 million of free cash flow to investors in Q1, including share repurchases and dividends [34] - Strategic actions taken to mitigate tariff impacts included pulling forward $85 million in domestic inventory receipts at pre-tariff prices [31][32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Retention of higher-income consumers - Management noted that retention among higher-income consumers has been strong, with these customers shopping more frequently across various product categories [41][42] Question: Performance in May and impact of Jordan brand - Management indicated that while May showed a slight decline, the Jordan brand continues to perform well, and they remain optimistic about Q2 due to upcoming shopping events [45][46] Question: Health of the consumer and impact of weather - Management attributed softness in certain categories to weather conditions and noted that consumer behavior is cautious, with a focus on value [52][53] Question: Tariff outlook for fiscal 2026 - Management emphasized the importance of diversifying sourcing to mitigate future tariff impacts, but refrained from speculating on specific outcomes [80][81] Question: Gross margin guidance - Management explained that gross margin guidance remains unchanged due to effective inventory management and partnerships with suppliers to mitigate cost increases [56][63]

Caleres (CAL) Q1 2026 Earnings Call May 29, 2025 10:00 AM ET Company Participants Liz Dunn - Senior Vice President of Corporate Development & Strategic CommunicationsJay Schmidt - President & CEOJack Calandra - SVP & CFODana Telsey - CEO and Chief Research OfficerLaura Champine - Director of ResearchChristopher Brazeau - Equity Research Associate Conference Call Participants Mitch Kummetz - Senior Analyst Operator Greetings, and welcome to Calera's First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Conference Call. ...